Fiber-Based Masks and Respirators: Using Decontamination Methods and Antimicrobial Treatment to Improve Its Reusability during Pandemic

Shortage of personal protective equipment (PPE) is often projected in response to public health emergencies such as infection outbreaks and pandemics. Respiratory devices (RPDs), namely medical face masks respirators, are considered the last defense for front-line healthcare workers. Cleaning, decontamination reuse disposable RPDs have been accepted by local authorities during pandemic period. To contribute mitigation RPD shortage ensure safe adoption protocols, this review discusses regulated testing standards most commonly studied methods literature. The must fulfill three criteria: remove microbial thread, maintain original function structural integrity (including fitting tests) leave no harmful residuals. Decontamination ultraviolet germicidal irradiation, moist heat vaporized hydrogen peroxide appeared be promising balancing above-mentioned criteria. However, effectiveness varies depending on RPDs’ models, materials design. Therefore, protocols needs evidence-based with full validation institutes. Additionally, new technology antimicrobial treated PPE that can reduce risks fomite donning doffing process an extended lifespan should encouraged. Overall, good training guidance appropriate fundamental their efficiency protecting